How Low Should One Hang a Chandelier Over a Table?

Overview

Typical Height Varies Slightly

The bottom of a chandelier should hang between 30 and 34 inches above the surface of the table. A chandelier hanging less than 30 inches off the table would get in the way of centerpieces and obstruct sight lines to people sitting on the other side of the table.

Hang It Higher from High Ceilings

In rooms with high ceilings, the chandelier should hang higher over the table to remain in proportion to the rest of the room. As a rule of thumb, add 3 inches to the distance between the table and the bottom of the chandelier for every foot of ceiling height above 8 feet.

Bottom Line

A chandelier should hang with the bottom of the fixture at least 30 inches from the surface of the table. The recommended distance between the table and the chandelier increases in rooms with ceilings over 8 feet high.

References

• Lighting By Gregory: How to Hang a Chandelier